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Fifa's determination to stage the 2022 Qatar World Cup in November and December prompted outrage from Premier League clubs and football fans.

Broadcasters like Fox in the US and Telemundo in Latin America, who have paid huge sums for the rights, are also vocal opponents of a winter tournament.

But a pre-Christmas final could boost UK broadcasters' revenues by about £12m, according to new research by the media agency, ZenithOptimedia.

The World Cup appeals to upmarket young men, targeted by advertisers in the drinks, auto and telecoms sectors. "Viewing figures are likely to be even higher than usual in the winter... when people are much more likely to stay in and watch television," the report found.

The last quarter of the year is the most important for most advertisers, as consumers prepare for Christmas, and airtime prices are significantly higher.